Starring Greek Australian actor Adam Hatzimanolis, Theatre Group debuts this season with the première of a tense and confronting new Australian play, James Balian’s Brother Daniel.

Brother Daniel is a revolutionary hero who – 25 years after the revolution – is now in gaol being tortured by his old comrades. They want to force him to speak out against the popular student uprising in the streets. His nerve is holding.

Lucinda, an intelligent young lawyer, wants to save him. But Daniel won’t play along with her either.

Is he an idealist? Or a pragmatist who knows the real cost of choosing sides? It’s a complicated chess game where every move has life or death consequences.

This production brings together a seasoned and talented cast and crew to bring this new Australian work to the Sydney stage.

Directed by Travis Green, the production plays for a limited two week season, starring Adam Hatzimanolis in the title role, with Jeannie Gee, Mel Dodge, Vincent Andriano, David Attrill, Errol Henderson, Richard Hilliar and Naomi Livingstone.

Director Travis Green says he was drawn to the play’s intriguing exploration of complicated relationships and individual choices.

“When I first read Brother Daniel, I saw a production that was more than just people existing in a totalitarian world. I saw the choices that people make to get through life, including the fundamental choice to not simply survive, but to truly exist. Brother Daniel has a beautiful and challenging script that explores the ambiguous nature of behaviour and the consequences of decisions we make.”

Playwright James Balian says the play explores a world we only hear about in the news. It is challenging, sometimes funny and often moving.

Brother Daniel is on at Tap Gallery, 278 Palmer St, Darlinghurst, from Wednesday 24 September to Sunday 5 October, Tuesday to Saturday at 8.00 pm and Sunday 4.00 pm. For bookings visit www.trybooking.com/FRMW